Dinosaurus!

Dinosaurus! is a science fiction movie from 1960, directed by Irvin S. Yeaworth Jr. and produced by Jack H. Harris, known for previously creating the iconic film, The Blob. The movie features Ward Ramsey, Kristina Hanson and Paul Lukather. The plot of Dinosaurus! is a thrilling blend of science fiction, fantasy, and action, appealing to fans of monster-movies and anyone who loves a good throwback to a classic era of cinema.

The story kicks off when an excavation crew led by Bart Thompson, intriguingly played by Ward Ramsey, is working on a remote Caribbean island setting off underwater explosives. The explosions unintentionally awaken two prehistoric creatures from their millennia-long sleep. A well-preserved, frozen-in-time Tyrannosaurus Rex and a less menacing Brontosaurus emerge from the ocean's depths, sharply bringing attention to the destructive, unanticipated consequences of man's tampering with the natural environment.

When a thunderstorm hits, the dinosaurs are struck by lightning, magically bringing them back to life - another accidental consequence of the main characters. They soon create all sorts of mayhem for the island residents. What follows is a classic monster movie: a series of misadventures, experiences with the inhabitants of the island, and attempts to subdue these ancient creatures.

To make things even more exciting, the work crew also uncovers a Neanderthal man during their operations, who, like the dinosaurs, is quickly revived by lightning. This character adds an interesting edge to the film, as he provides a humanizing encounter of a 'monster' who is more confused and innocent than outright dangerous.

Ward Ramsey's character, Bart Thompson, is an imposing figure and effective hero in Dinosaurus! His character's quick thinking, leadership, and fearless attitude under pressure make him a standout character. Kristina Hanson, as the girlfriend of Bart Thompson, adds a romantic angle and also cleverly comments on gender roles within this ostensibly traditional genre film.

Paul Lukather embodies the character of Chuck, Thompson’s assistant, managing to provide light-hearted moments even amidst the chaotic dinosaur encounters. His performance gives the movie a nice blend of moments of tension and much-needed comic relief.

The filmmakers effectively utilize the monster movie template of the 1960s, incorporating unexpected elements into a narrative that never loses its pace. Though the film features a carnivorous dinosaur and a giant stone-age man on a rampage, there is a light-heartedness to it, as though acknowledging the fun of its own fantastic premise.

The movie is filled with classic film moments and endearing visual effects. The usage of stop-motion animation to bring the dinosaurs to life gives the film a nostalgic charm that is simply irresistible for fans of old-school filmmaking. The dinosaurs, though visibly less sophisticated than today's computer-generated graphics, are enlivened with a charming animation style that nostalgically harks back to Hollywood's golden age.

The movie's setting, the isolated Caribbean island, plays into the storyline effectively, creating an atmosphere that amplifies the film's thrilling and suspenseful moments. With its lush jungles and crystal-clear beaches, the island presents an intriguing contrast to the terrifying and fantastic prehistoric beasts wreaking havoc on the unsuspecting islanders.

Dinosaurus! is a memorable film for those who love to delve into the past of cinema. The film expertly combines action, peril, comedy, and romance, using its fantastic premise to explore drama, human power dynamics, and social structures in a light-hearted and enjoyable way.

Cinephiles will appreciate the film’s clear demonstration of the early influence of monster movies on the entirety of Hollywood's adventure and horror genres. Ward Ramsey, Kristina Hanson, and Paul Lukather's superb performances lend emotional depth to Dinosaurus!, making it much more than just a thrilling 'creature feature.'

In conclusion, Dinosaurus! is not just an adventurous monster flick. At heart, it's a touching commentary on humanity's place within, and responsibility toward, the natural world, effectively combined with a nostalgic adventure that will take you back to the essence of pure entertainment cinema in the 1960s. Its unique blend of genres, memorable performances, and retro visual effects make Dinosaurus! a hidden gem of the monster movie genre.